Lower Dungeness River

getting there

lower trailhead

From US 101 near Sequim Bay State Park, turn west onto Luella Road and then left onto Palo Alto Road. In 6 miles, turn right onto Forest Road 2880 and then turn left onto Forest Road 2870. In 2.6 miles turn left onto Forest Road 2870-230 and continue 1.5 miles to the trailhead (1,600 ft).

upper trailhead

on the trail

lower dungeness river

13 miles round trip with 2,100 feet of elevation gain to a 2,700 ft high point

Hike the Dungeness Trail starting very close to the river with views of the lush valley floor. Soon the trail starts to ascend to the steep valley walls. In the first couple miles and passes through various stands of cedar, Douglas fir and alder. There are occasionally views of the other side of the Dungeness Valley and even the snowy caps far up to the river headwaters. At the 3.3 miles, reach Three O'clock Ridge. This is a good spot to stop for a snack and enjoy views of the valley bottom, Dirty Face Ridge and Mount Townsend. If you up for a side trip, hike the 0.5 mile and 300 feet of elevation gain to Forest Road 2870 and more views. Head back from here or continue on and reach the Upper Dungeness River trailhead (2,500 ft) at 7.5 miles.

gold creek

14.2 miles round trip with 2,450 feet of elevation gain to a 3,250 ft high point

From the Lower Dungeness trailhead (1,600 ft), hike north for 1.2 miles and then south for 5.9 miles on the Gold Creek Trail to the Tubal Cain Mine trailhead (3.250 ft).

lower dungeness river & gold creek loop

17.3 mile loop with 2,450 feet of elevation gain to a 3,250 ft high point

Hike either the Lower Dungeness River or Gold Creek. Then walk Forest Road 2860 to the Tubal Cain Mine trailhead or Upper Dungeness River trailhead, respectively, and loop back to the Lower Dungeness River trailhead.

information for leaders

scheduling

Please use the Upper Dungeness River route/place for one-way hikes between the Lower and Upper trailheads done in either direction.